Some time back we had a discussion about suitable materials for the construction of hot pipe systems. Brass, stainless, black iron and galvanized were mentioned. Stainless was the gold standard with brass a close second.
Regarding the steel/iron pipes, I recalled that in several years working at the boat plants we never used galvanized pipe for our hot sections, always black iron. I wasn't sure why but metallurgic issues were the common explanation at the time. Here on the Moyer forum it was agreed that there was no problem using galvanized pipe for the hot section and this from the most knowledgeable members.
Now, I run across this, of particular interest to our application is the last paragraph.
Given his background, this guy's statement seems to bear some weight. Maybe there's something more to the use of black iron than just the cheapest material available.
Footnote: Brass alloys consist of 15% - 30% zinc. DYOC (draw your own conclusion).
Regarding the steel/iron pipes, I recalled that in several years working at the boat plants we never used galvanized pipe for our hot sections, always black iron. I wasn't sure why but metallurgic issues were the common explanation at the time. Here on the Moyer forum it was agreed that there was no problem using galvanized pipe for the hot section and this from the most knowledgeable members.
Now, I run across this, of particular interest to our application is the last paragraph.
I am blacksmith and welder. Metal fume fever from zinc is still a hazard that can and does kill. Before I knew about it, I welded together a propane gas burner using galvanized pipe and gave myself a large dose of zinc poisoning. The "flu" lasted about a week and was similar to a recent bout of pneumonia. I have since tried all the safety precautions using venting, fans behind you, rebreathers, etc and no matter what I have tried, I always got exposed and wound up in bed and/or hospital. I won't go near the stuff anymore, no matter what I am offered to make a repair.
I use blackpipe in all my gas lines and in any application where the pipe is going to get hot. Even just oven heat is enough to gas off little bits of zinc. Since blackpipe is available in the same sizes and fittings, why take the chance?!? Steer away from the stuff!
Daniel Kretchmar
www.irontreeworks.com
I use blackpipe in all my gas lines and in any application where the pipe is going to get hot. Even just oven heat is enough to gas off little bits of zinc. Since blackpipe is available in the same sizes and fittings, why take the chance?!? Steer away from the stuff!
Daniel Kretchmar
www.irontreeworks.com
Footnote: Brass alloys consist of 15% - 30% zinc. DYOC (draw your own conclusion).
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